Primary Care Physicians

What is a Primary Care Physician?

A primary care physician (PCP) is a generalist who coordinates your health care needs, determining the best treatment courses and deciding when to refer you to other medical specialists. A PCP could be a family practitioner, an internist, or if you have children, a pediatrician.

There are many reasons you may need to choose a new PCP such as:

• You are new to the area.
• Your health insurance plan has changed.
• Your physician is retiring.
• You are dissatisfied with your current provider.

Selecting a Primary Care Physician

Choosing a doctor that best fits your needs is the first step to good health. It's best to begin the selection process early to avoid making a hasty decision. Here are some tips for you to consider when selecting a PCP:

• Find out about medical training, background, board certification and years of experience.
• Determine your preferences:
  • Do you prefer a male or female physician?
  • How important is location?
  • How important are office hours?
  • Do you prefer a family practitioner, an internist or a pediatrician?
  • Is it important that your physician will correspond via email?
• Ask about practice philosophy.
• Visit the office and observe the environment and staff.
• Interview the doctor; discuss your medical history and concerns.
• Find out about accessibility and communication style.

Select a Primary Care Physician today by calling our Physician Referral Line at 425-688-5211.

Click here to find a physician in our online directory.